Exploring the Library: Library Reading and Entertainment Apps

by Laura Kayacan, Adult Services Librarian

Now more than ever, people are turning to online resources to serve their information and entertainment needs. The library provides plenty of online material through apps that are available on a computer, cellphone, iPad or other tablet. One of the largest online collections of e-books, audiobooks, magazines and videos – accessible by libraries around the state – is Wisconsin’s Digital Library, or OverDrive/Libby (wplc.overdrive.com).

Just download the Libby app (or the OverDrive app on Kindle), and log in with your library name, library-card number and PIN. When first logging in, library systems are listed at the top. Avoid scrolling through dozens of library names by choosing the Nicolet Federated Library System (NFLS) – which Door County Library card holders use – when asked for a library name.

With OverDrive, users may check out a total of 10 items at a time. Magazines don’t count toward the 10, but as with print books, you may have to wait on a hold list for the more popular items. 

Another app that’s accessible with a Door County Library card is hoopla digital (hoopladigital.com), through which you can check out e-books, audiobooks, music, graphic novels, movies and television series instantly – no waiting involved! Books clubs love hoopla because all members have access to the same book at the same time, and it has many of the popular PBS and Acorn TV series, such Doc Martin and Murdoch Mysteries. 

hoopla is not a statewide service, and the limit is five items per month for Door County Library card holders.

Find links to these apps and more at doorcountylibrary.org/download.